Buy a Garage Door Opener

There are different factors that you need to take into account before buying a garage door opener. The openers are available in different styles and sizes. In order to ensure that you purchase a product that best meets your needs, it is important to learn all that you can about how to buy a garage door opener.

Steps

  1. Determine how much power your garage door needs. Garage door openers are found in three different sizes: 1/3 horsepower, 1/2 horsepower and 3/4 horsepower.
    • You will need to examine if you need an opener to lift one or two doors. You will also need to take into consideration the material and size of the door.
    • If you plan to purchase an opener to lift double doors, you will need to look for an opener that is at least 1/2 horsepower.
    • A single door can be lifted with a 1/3 hp opener. However, an opener with more power will last longer.
    • Oversize, large and heavy doors will need the most horsepower.
  2. Decide what type of drive system you want. The three main types are belt drive, chain drive and screw drive.
    • Belt drive openers raise and lower the door on rubber belts. This is a very quiet opening and closing. In most cases, this type of garage door opener is on the higher end of pricing.
    • Metal chains raise and lower the garage door on chain driven openers. Naturally, the clanging of the chains causes a more noisy opening and closing. This type of opener is usually lower priced.
    • Screw driven garage door openers raise and lower the door on a threaded rod. This type of opener has fewer parts and is often lower maintenance.
  3. Consider how important speed and special features are to you. The average opener opens at {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} per second. Some models may double in speed. Others may be slower.
  4. Make a decision about how the door opener will be installed. Do you need a retailer that offers installation? Will you install it? Do you have an outside party that will complete the installation?
  5. Hunt for a garage door opener carrier. Now that you know what you need, visit stores such as Lowe's, Sears and Home Depot. Private businesses that sell and install garage doors will most likely also sell garage door openers.
    • Discuss your needs and desires for your garage door openers with a salesman.
    • View different models and brands that meet your requirements.
  6. Compare the prices and features of each opener that you are interested in purchasing.
  7. Examine the warranties offered with the door openers.
    • Look for warranties that are longer term and cover the motor of the opener and the parts.
  8. Purchase the opener that best satisfies your needs.

Tips

  • Keep safety in mind when looking to buy a garage door opener. The government has placed a regulation that all openers have a non-contact invisible beam system to prevent the closure on a person, animal or object. However, other safety features are available. Look for a manual emergency release cord, automatic lights and a timed reverse feature.

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